The Girl Scouts of America has been a cornerstone in my life since I first joined as a 5-year-old Daisy Scout. Over the years, as I progressed to a Girl Scout Ambassador at 18, I engaged in countless community service projects, each one shaping me into the emergency management leader I am today. The Girl Scouts taught me to run towards crises, not away from them, instilling in me a deep commitment to helping my community thrive.
Throughout my journey, I earned the three highest honors in Girl Scouting, each reflecting a milestone in my growth. My Bronze Award was a testament to my early environmental stewardship, where I planted trees and flowers at Maria Emilia Camp in Añasco, Puerto Rico, and contributed to the camp’s sustainability by restocking and distributing food. For my Silver Award, I spearheaded a community-wide initiative to collect over 1,000 canned foods for disaster relief efforts following the Indian Ocean earthquake. This project involved coordinating drop-off stations, engaging local businesses, and rallying neighbors in Cabo Rojo to contribute to the cause.
My proudest achievement came with the Gold Award, where I led a transformative project at the Mayagüez Association for the Disabled Community Center. The center was in desperate need of renovations, from faded walls to outdated furniture and recreational supplies. I organized a team of volunteers, set a schedule, and together, we breathed new life into the facility. We painted walls, designed a new logo, replaced broken furniture, and introduced new activities for the community to enjoy. Beyond the physical improvements, I also volunteered my time to assist the center’s administrative staff, ensuring the project left a lasting positive impact.
Being a Girl Scout wasn’t just about earning badges; it was about learning to lead with compassion, integrity, and a drive to make a real difference in the world.
